Main Content

Elmsford

History

Elmsford, NY, incorporated in 1910, is a one-square-mile village in the town of Greenburgh. Originally farmland in the “Neutral Ground” during the Revolutionary War, the area evolved from colonial “Storm’s Bridge” to “Hall’s Corners” before adopting its current name in 1870 to honor a giant elm tree by a Saw Mill River ford.

Colonial & Revolutionary Roots

  • Major Figure Resting Place: The Elmsford Reformed Church Cemetery is the resting place of Isaac Van Alongside John Paulding and David Williams, Van Wart famously captured the British spy Major John André in September 1780, thwarting Benedict Arnold’s treason plot.
  • The “First Cocktail” Legend: A popular local legend claims that the cocktail was invented in Elmsford during the American Revolution. As the story goes, an Elmsford barmaid at a local tavern (often said to be O’Brien’s Ledger House) ran out of wooden stirrers and used rooster tail feathers to stir drinks, giving the drink its name.

From Farmland to Suburb

  • The Railroad Boom: Much of Elmsford’s 19th-century growth was tied to the New York and Putnam Passenger service in the 1870s spurred the area’s development from a farming community into a bustling local hub. Commuter lines ended in 1958, but the old railway bed has since been repurposed into the North and South County Trailways.
  • Modern Expansion: Throughout the 20th and early 21st centuries, the village evolved into a diverse, close-knit Today, it functions as a prominent commercial and industrial nexus in mid-Westchester County.

Today

Living in Elmsford, NY offers a blend of suburban peace and urban convenience. Located in Westchester County, just 25 miles from Manhattan, the village is known for its relatively accessible housing market and strong sense of community—all while serving as a central highway hub.

Housing & Cost

  • Median Home Value: Hovering around $640,000 to $650,000, which makes it a more affordable alternative to neighboring towns in lower Westchester.
  • Real Estate Mix: Primarily single-family homes like Cape Cods, ranches, and modest Colonials, with a slightly higher-than-average percentage of
  • Household Income: The median household income is approximately $112,000 to $120,000.

Commuting & Location

  • Major Roadways: The village is extremely accessible, bordered by I-287, the Saw Mill River Parkway, the Sprain Brook Parkway, and Route 9A.
  • Public Transit: Commuters often drive to nearby Metro-North train stations like Tarrytown, White Plains, or Hartsdale for easy access into New York City.
  • Proximity: You are just a short drive from the major dining and retail hubs in White Plains and Tarrytown.

Parks & Recreation

  • Local Parks: DeLuca Park features playgrounds and picnic tables, while East Rumbrook offers a massive athletic complex, tennis courts, baseball fields, and a dog park.
  • Greenburgh Parks: Being in the Town of Greenburgh, residents also have access to the town’s recreation programs, including community swimming pools and

Dining & Shopping

  • Main Street Vibe: West Main Street acts as the village center with local, family-owned businesses. Community staples like Carmine’s Deli & Cafe offer Italian and American fare.
  • Big Box Stores: The area also features larger commercial strip malls along Route 119 and Route 9A, giving residents easy access to large retailers.

Education

  • Public Schools: Students generally attend the Elmsford Union Free School District, which includes Alice E. Grady Elementary School and Alexander Hamilton Junior/Senior High The district maintains an intimate, smaller student-to-teacher ratio

Sorry we are experiencing system issues. Please try again.
Skip to content